How to Pay for Drinks on a Norwegian Cruise?

Going on a Norwegian Cruise is an exciting experience filled with incredible destinations, entertainment, and dining options. One aspect that many travelers find confusing, especially first-timers, is how to pay for drinks while onboard. Unlike some all-inclusive resorts, cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offer various options for beverages, and understanding these options can help you save money and avoid surprises on your final bill. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about paying for drinks on a Norwegian Cruise, including drink packages, onboard accounts, tipping policies, and smart budgeting tips.

Understanding the Drink Policy on Norwegian Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of beverages ranging from soft drinks and coffee to premium cocktails, wines, and spirits. While some drinks like water, tea, and basic coffee are complimentary in certain dining areas, most alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, smoothies, and premium drinks are charged separately. This means passengers have multiple options for payment. Understanding the drink policy in advance can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Norwegian Cruise Beverage Packages

One of the most popular ways to manage drink costs on a Norwegian Cruise is by purchasing a beverage package. These packages allow you to pay a fixed price upfront and enjoy a variety of drinks without worrying about individual charges. There are several options available:

1. Premium Beverage PackageThe Premium Beverage Package is ideal for passengers who want unlimited access to alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, wines by the glass, champagne, beer, and spirits. It also typically covers non-alcoholic drinks like soda, bottled water, and specialty coffees. Paying for this package upfront can save you money if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks each day of your cruise.

2. Classic Soda PackageThe Classic Soda Package is designed for passengers who mainly want soft drinks. This package provides unlimited access to soda, iced tea, lemonade, and other non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a cost-effective option for families or passengers who don’t drink alcohol but want the convenience of unlimited beverages.

3. Deluxe Coffee & Tea PackageFor coffee lovers, the Deluxe Coffee & Tea Package is a great choice. It typically includes specialty coffees, teas, and hot chocolate available at various cafés onboard. This package is often convenient for morning routines or enjoying a relaxing beverage throughout the day.

4. Other Specialty PackagesNorwegian occasionally offers seasonal or specialty drink packages, such as wine pairing packages during dining events or cocktail packages for specific bars onboard. Checking your cruise options before departure can help you select the package that best suits your needs.

Paying Per Drink

If you prefer not to purchase a beverage package, you can pay for drinks individually as you go. Each bar or restaurant onboard has a menu with clearly listed prices for all beverages. You can pay with a variety of methods, depending on how your onboard account is set up. While paying per drink may seem simple, costs can add up quickly, especially with premium cocktails or imported wines.

Using the Onboard Account System

Norwegian Cruise Line uses a cashless system where passengers have an onboard account linked to a credit card or debit card. This system makes paying for drinks and other purchases convenient and secure. Here’s how it works:

• Setting Up Your Account: When you check in, you will link your onboard account to a valid credit or debit card. This card will serve as the primary method of payment for all onboard charges, including drinks, excursions, and specialty dining.

• Charging Drinks: Every time you order a beverage at a bar or restaurant, the charge is added to your onboard account. You can view your charges on your stateroom TV, the cruise line app, or printed receipts.

• Final Settlement: At the end of the cruise, your onboard account is settled using the card you linked at check-in. This eliminates the need to carry cash onboard and provides a detailed record of your spending.

Cash Payments

Although Norwegian Cruise Line promotes the cashless system, it is sometimes possible to pay for drinks in cash. However, the majority of passengers rely on their onboard account for convenience. Using cash may be limited to specialty areas or specific bars, and you may still need to provide a credit card for verification.

Tipping for Drinks

On Norwegian Cruises, tipping is an important consideration, especially for drink service. While Norwegian Cruise Line automatically adds a daily gratuity to your account, it’s common practice to tip bartenders for exceptional service. This is especially relevant if you’re ordering premium cocktails or requesting custom drinks. Many passengers tip $1–$2 per drink, but this varies depending on personal preference and the level of service.

Smart Tips for Paying for Drinks on a Norwegian Cruise

1. Calculate Your Average Consumption: Before deciding whether to buy a beverage package, estimate how many drinks you expect to have each day. If you plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic drinks or specialty coffees daily, a package can save you money.

2. Check for Promotions: Norwegian Cruise Line occasionally offers promotions that include beverage packages at discounted rates. Booking early or during a promotion can be cost-effective.

3. Use the App for Tracking: The Norwegian Cruise Line app allows you to track your onboard spending in real-time. Monitoring your drink charges ensures you stay within budget and avoid surprises at checkout.

4. Understand Package Limitations: Beverage packages have some restrictions, such as limits on serving sizes or specific brands. Always read the fine print to understand what’s included.

5. Share Wisely: Some packages allow guests to share beverages with their travel companions. Understanding the rules can help families or groups make the most of the package.

6. Plan for Shore Excursions: If you plan to drink off the ship during shore excursions, factor that into your budget. Onboard beverage packages typically do not cover drinks purchased onshore.

Advantages of Using a Beverage Package

Purchasing a beverage package offers several advantages. First, it provides convenience, allowing passengers to order drinks without constantly checking prices or paying individually. Second, it can save money for those who enjoy frequent drinks, especially cocktails and premium beverages. Third, it simplifies budgeting by providing a fixed cost upfront, helping passengers manage their overall cruise expenses.

Considerations When Paying Per Drink

While paying per drink can be flexible for occasional drinkers, it’s important to consider the cost. Specialty cocktails on Norwegian Cruises can be expensive, and even soft drinks may cost more than expected. For passengers who only enjoy one or two drinks a day, per-drink payments may be more economical than a package. Additionally, paying per drink allows more freedom to choose specific beverages without committing to a package.

Family-Friendly Options

For families with children, understanding how to pay for drinks is essential. Norwegian Cruise Line offers packages that include non-alcoholic beverages, which can be convenient for children and teenagers. Parents can purchase a soda or juice package for their children while choosing a premium package for themselves. This flexibility ensures everyone has access to drinks they enjoy while keeping costs predictable.

International Travelers and Currency Considerations

Many Norwegian Cruise passengers are international travelers. The onboard account system simplifies currency concerns by charging your linked credit or debit card in your home currency. This eliminates the need to carry foreign cash and provides a straightforward way to pay for drinks and other purchases. Be aware of any foreign transaction fees your bank may apply.

Tips for Saving Money on Drinks

1. Bring Your Own Water Bottle: While bottled water is often charged, bringing a refillable water bottle can reduce costs. Most ships have water stations where passengers can refill bottles for free.

2. Take Advantage of Happy Hours: Norwegian Cruises sometimes offer happy hour promotions with discounts on drinks. Check the daily schedule for opportunities to save.

3. Share a Package: If traveling with a partner or friend, consider splitting the cost of a beverage package if the cruise rules allow. This can reduce individual expenses while still providing access to unlimited drinks.

4. Limit Premium Cocktails: Ordering lower-cost drinks or sticking to included beverages can help manage expenses if you’re paying per drink.

5. Track Your Spending: Using the onboard account system to monitor your spending ensures you don’t exceed your planned budget.

Understanding the Bill at Checkout

At the end of your Norwegian Cruise, you will receive a detailed statement of your onboard account. This includes all drink charges, dining charges, gratuities, and any additional purchases. Reviewing the statement carefully ensures accuracy and helps identify any discrepancies before leaving the ship.

Conclusion

Paying for drinks on a Norwegian Cruise is straightforward once you understand the options available. Whether you choose a beverage package, pay per drink, or use a combination of methods, planning ahead can save money and make your cruise experience more enjoyable. Using the onboard account system provides convenience and security, while understanding tipping practices and package limitations ensures a smooth experience. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without worrying about unexpected costs, allowing you to focus on the fun, relaxation, and adventure that a Norwegian Cruise offers.

With the right planning, paying for drinks on a Norwegian Cruise becomes a seamless part of the overall experience. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding your options, budgeting smartly, and taking advantage of beverage packages can enhance your journey and make your vacation truly memorable.